This used to be one of my favourite times of the year. Logging onto the net each day and checking the usual spots for any trade rumours about my favourite team.I say “used to be”, because I happen to be in a very sucky position this year – I’m a Maple Leafs fan.

Every team, whether in the playoff race or not, has a player that will more than likely be traded. The bad teams try to unload their UFA’s for picks and their veterans for prospects. While the good teams trade away the under performers to make room for rental players.

“After further consultation with one of the leading physicians with regard to hip injuries it was decided that surgery was the best course of action,” said Dave Nonis. “The best long term decision for Ryan and our hockey club was to have the surgery immediately.”

From Spector to Eklund, from TSN.ca to this site, Forsberg’s name in trade rumors is everywhere!In a recent interview, Holmgrem stated that he hasn’t talked anything with Forsberg about waiving his no-trade clause but admitted having received calls from several teams, including the Colorado Avalanche. Holmgrem said there hadn’t been any discussion with ANY team despite getting several requests concerning the Swedish center.

THE SCORE: reports Columbus Blue Jackets winger Nikolai Zherdev has fallen out of favour with head coach Ken Hitch***** and might be shopped at the trade deadline. Zherdev appears to be struggling under Hitch*****’s system, although the asking price for him could be expensive.

Spector’s Note: His $2.5 million per season contract over the next three years could also be tempting, provided Zherdev regains his scoring touch. No word thus far out of Columbus on his situation.

The Team 990 in Montreal is citing a “reliable source” from the Dallas airport that Montreal are the front-runners in the Peter Forsberg sweepstakes, followed by Detroit, Anaheim, San Jose and Colorado. Reportedly, Montreal is offering an unnamed mid-level player and a 1st round draft pick.

As I read almost every article on HTR.com as time permits; I find it hilarious that somehow Leaf / Leaf fan bashing squeezes its way into every article or response. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a Leaf fan but it doesn’t hurt me to hear what others think about them or Leaf fans in general; this is more to create conversation and discussion.

In Boston news, it seems rookie GM Peter Chiarelli is ready to make some roster changes. The B’s had a rough go heading up to the allstar break and are in dire need of an energy forward and some defensive depth